Homemade Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy – A Comfort Food Classic!

Salisbury steak is the ultimate comfort food—a hearty and satisfying dish that brings warmth to the dinner table. Tender beef patties smothered in a rich mushroom gravy make this dish a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a nostalgic meal reminiscent of homemade goodness, this recipe delivers both flavor and simplicity.

Why You’ll Love This Salisbury Steak Recipe

Quick & Simple – Made with basic ingredients and minimal effort, this dish is ready in no time.
Rich and Savory Flavor – The combination of beef, onions, and mushrooms in a flavorful gravy creates a deeply satisfying taste.
Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a batch and store leftovers for an easy meal later in the week.
Cost-Effective – Made with inexpensive, everyday ingredients you likely already have on hand.
No Ham, Bacon, or Wine – A wholesome, family-friendly recipe without unnecessary additives.

What is Salisbury Steak?

Salisbury steak is a dish made from seasoned ground beef, shaped into patties and cooked in a rich, flavorful gravy. Despite its name, it isn’t steak in the traditional sense. Instead, it is a budget-friendly dish that mimics the texture and richness of steak by using ground beef and seasonings. The dish originated in the United States in the 19th century and has remained a beloved comfort food ever since.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salisbury Steaks:

1 pound ground beef (80/20 for the best texture)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg
1 small onion, finely minced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)

For the Mushroom Gravy:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons cornstarch dissolved in 2 tablespoons water (for a thicker consistency)
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon soy sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon garlic powder

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Salisbury Steaks

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, minced onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and dried parsley.
Mix gently with your hands until the ingredients are well combined, being careful not to overmix, as this can make the patties tough.
Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into oval-shaped patties, about ½ inch thick.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they develop a deep brown crust. They don’t need to be fully cooked yet, as they will finish cooking in the gravy.
Remove the patties from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

2. Make the Mushroom Gravy

In the same skillet, drizzle in an additional tablespoon of olive oil.
Add the sliced onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 5 minutes, until they release their moisture and turn golden brown.
Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder, stirring to combine.
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then slowly stir it into the gravy to thicken.
Allow the gravy to simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Finish Cooking the Salisbury Steaks

Return the beef patties to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy.
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let them simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until fully cooked and the flavors meld together.
Spoon some of the rich gravy over the patties while they cook to keep them moist and flavorful.

4. Serve and Enjoy!

Plate the Salisbury steaks and generously spoon mushroom gravy over the top.
Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles for a complete meal.
Add a touch of fresh parsley for vibrant color and a hint of freshness.

Perfect Side Dishes to Pair with Salisbury Steak

Pair your Salisbury steak with these delicious side dishes:

Creamy Mashed Potatoes – The perfect way to soak up the rich gravy.
Steamed Green Beans – A fresh and healthy addition.
Buttered Egg Noodles – A classic pairing with beef dishes.
Garlic Roasted Carrots – Sweet and savory with a hint of garlic.
Fluffy White Rice – A great alternative to potatoes or noodles.

Tips for the Best Salisbury Steak

Use Ground Beef with Some Fat – 80/20 beef provides the best flavor and juiciness.
Don’t Overmix the Meat – Overmixing leads to tough patties. Combine just until ingredients are incorporated.
Sear the Patties Well – A deep brown crust enhances both texture and flavor.
Adjust the Thickness of the Gravy – If you like a thicker gravy, add more cornstarch slurry; for a thinner consistency, add more broth.
Perfect for Meal Prep – This dish stores and reheats well, making it a great make-ahead option.

How to Store and Reheat

Refrigeration:

Store any remaining portions in a tightly sealed container and refrigerate for up to three days.

Freezing:

Freeze cooked patties and gravy in separate containers for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating:

Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed.
Heat individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway for even warming.

Final Thoughts

Homemade Salisbury steak with mushroom gravy is a true comfort food classic. With its rich, flavorful gravy and tender beef patties, this dish is both satisfying and easy to make. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try, and enjoy the heartwarming taste of a homemade classic!

Looking for more delicious comfort food recipes? Stay tuned for more hearty and wholesome meals!